Much motivational research has examined the role of attributions of perceived causes of outcomes. Attributions are important because theory and research show that attributions have differential effects on motivation. There are many different attributions; for example, ability, effort, task ease/difficulty, luck, strategy use, help from others, environmental conditions. Of all attributions, none has been studied more than effort. Effort is a commonly used attribution and also highly valued by parents, teachers, counselors, coaches, and employers. This article addresses the effects of effort attributional feedback on motivation and performance. Effort attributional feedback is oral or written feedback by others that links performance outcomes with effort. By understanding the role of effort attributional feedback, parents and practitioners will be able to work with students and clients to help them develop beliefs that facilitate motivation and performance. (Contains 13 references.) (Author)